Kids in Odisha capital on skating rally to raise Nepal aid

Emulating adults engaged in a similar exercise, toddlers in the Odisha capital on Wednesday set out on a skating rally on the streets of the city to raise funds for the victims of the devastating earthquake in Nepal

Pic: Biswaranjan Mishra

Members of city-based Odisha Roller Skating Academy (ORSA) here approached the denizens of the city to contribute generously as per their paying capacity towards the earthquake ravaged victims in the neighbouring country in which the death toll has already crossed over 5000 and is likely to touch 10000.

Partha Sarathi Jena, Founder-cum-Chief Coach of the ORSA said, “For the recent earth quake in Nepal, I, along with 14 students who were imparted skating training in the academy, today joined hands and raised as much funds as possible for the victims.”

“We started the noble programme on Tuesday and it will continue till Friday. Mostly, we are covering shopping malls and market areas in the city. Till now, we have covered Big Bazaar, Pantaloons, Bhabani Mall and Unit-II market to contribute money for the earthquake victim,” Jena informed.

“I am happy that people are supporting the cause by donating money to the tiny kids moving on the streets along with their skate, helmet and a box tied to their chest written ‘Your help can bring somebody’s smile back’,” he said.

“All the skaters from our academy will meet Odisha’s Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik directly and hand over our collections to the CM’s relief fund in form of a bank draft,” he added.

“This noble cause is not only for the people of Nepal, but for the entire humanity. Apart from our educational knowledge, I do believe the step we have taken will give value to all our students, youths and people of our society,” the Skating coach said.

Most of the students participating in the programme are from reputed schools in the city like SAI international school, Delhi Public School and others. The programme starts from 3.30 pm everyday and continues till late evening, he informed.

“I once again urge all the people of our state/country, join hand and open heartedly support this noble cause,” appealed Jena.